Orange CA Podiatry

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Bunion Blues

Bunions can cause a lot of pain, not to mention they do not give feet the most aesthetically-pleasing appearance. At Orange CA Podiatry, here in Orange, CA, we treat patients who have bunions and developing bunions.


A bunion is an abnormal bone formation that is usually located on the side of the foot, by the big toe’s first joint. Occasionally, bunions can form on the other side of the foot, by the first joint of the little toe. These types of bunions are called tailor’s bunions. The bunion itself is a bump that deforms the joint. They are formed when the joint is frequently pushed into the wrong direction, like when your big toe is pushed inward. A bunion is characterized by the sore bump on the outside of the foot. When inflamed and irritated, the area may turn red. Swelling, stiffness of the joint, and a burning sensation are symptoms that may be experienced.  


This is commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes that do not have enough room for all the toes are often the culprits. However, along with inappropriate shoes, other factors in the formation of bunions genetics, arthritis, and injuries.


To slow down the formation of a bunion, changing your shoes is the first thing to do. Wear shoes that have no heel, or a small heel, good support, and enough room for the toes. Custom foot orthotics may be a good idea. Padding and splinting inside of your shoe can help move the joint back into its correct placement. An anti-inflammatory and icing will help with pain and inflammation. Your doctor may also suggest a cortisone shot. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.


If you suspect you are forming a bunion, be sure to schedule an appointment with us for treatment. To schedule at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call our office at (714) 628-1995. More information can be found on our website, www.orangecapodiatry.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Neuroma Facts

A neuroma is a painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a nerve tumor that travels between the bases of the third and fourth toes. When the tissue around these toes thickens, it brings on a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. A neuroma is typically caused by repeated mild injury to the space between these two toes, which can occur in runners or those who wear unfitted footwear.  If you are experiencing foot pain of any kind, please visit our staff at Orange CA Podiatry immediately.


The primary symptom associated with a neuroma is pain between the toes while walking. Patients who suffer from this condition may describe the pain as similar to having a pebble in his or her shoe and may often find relief by stopping their walk, taking off their shoe, and rubbing the affected area. Podiatric medical care should be sought at the first sign of pain or discomfort. Treatment options vary with the severity of each neuroma, and identifying the neuroma early in its development is important to avoid surgery.


If any of these symptoms sound all too familiar, please give us a call. To learn about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at the office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Give Yourself a Foot Exam

At Orange CA Podiatry, it is the job of our staff members to ensure that your foot health is in its most optimal state. Most of us know that foot exams can be lifesaving for patients with diabetes, but realistically they are important when it comes to diagnosing any serious foot condition. Fortunately, it’s easy to keep your feet healthy. Here are just a few things to look for when self-examining yours.



  • Balance – a good test for balance involves standing on one foot, with your arms out to the side and your eyes close. If you are less than 30 years old, you should be able to balance for 15 seconds, 30 to 40 years old for 12 seconds, 40 to 50 years old for 10 seconds and over 50 years old for seven seconds. This can be improved with exercises.

  • Circulation. Look at the color of your toes. Do they look like a normal nail color or are they leaning towards red, white, purple, or blue? Press down on the nail of your big toe until the color blanches. Now let go and allow the blood flow to return to your toe. The return of normal color should take 2 to 5 seconds in a person with average circulation.

  • Flexibility. How flexible are your toes? Try to pick up a marble or a small dish towel with your toes. To test your ankle flexibility, hang your heel off of a stair. Now let the heel go below the level of the stair. If this causes pain, stop the test. If your heel goes below the level of the stair without causing strain in your calf, that is a good sign.

  • Check your skin for calluses, blisters, or areas of irritation.


If you notice any abnormalities on your feet, please give us a call. To learn about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at the office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Toenail Fungus: Causes and Treatment

Toenail fungus is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take over, the nail often becomes darker in color and smells foul. Because it is difficult to avoid contact with tiny microscopic organisms like fungi, the toenails are especially vulnerable around damp areas where you are likely to be walking barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers, for example. Treatments may vary, depending on the nature and severity of the infection. But once the problem has been detected, our doctors at Orange CA Podiatry can suggest a remedy.


You may have nail fungus if one or more of your nails are thickened, brittle, crumbly, or ragged, distorted in shape, or dull with no shine. A daily routine of cleansing over a period of many months may suppress mild infections. However, the earlier you seek professional treatment, the greater your chance of getting your nails to clear.


If you notice a fungus on your foot, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at our office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Flatfoot Facts

You’ll know if you have flatfeet when the arches on the inside of your feet are flattened, allowing the entire soles of your feet to touch the floor when you stand up. This is a common and usually painless condition and typically occurs when the arches don’t develop during childhood. Flatfeet can sometimes contribute to problems in your ankles and legs and knees because the condition can alter the alignment of your legs. If flatfeet are causing you trouble, our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry can provide you with relief.


Flatfeet are often a complex disorder, with diverse symptoms and varying degrees of deformity and disability. When diagnosing flatfeet, one of our podiatrists will examine your feet and observe how they look when you stand and sit. X-rays are usually taken to determine the severity of the disorder. Most people have no signs or symptoms of flatfeet, but if pain is present, it can worsen with activity.


If you have flat feet and are experiencing pain in the heel, arch, ankle, or along the outside of the foot, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at our office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Trimming Toenails: The Basics

 


If you don’t clip your toenails you risk the chance of them growing too long, becoming ingrown and/or causing discomfort as you walk. Trimming your toenails may seem simple enough, but it isn’t something that should be done carelessly. This is why our staff at Orange CA Podiatry put together a list of toenail trimming basics, so that you can give your feet the care they deserve.

Cut straight across – Guide the clippers across the nail of each toe and avoid cutting in a curved shape.

Use appropriate toenail clippers – large clippers are for toenails, small clippers are for fingernails.

Leave nails a little long – If you cut them too short, ingrown toenails occur. It can also leave your nails susceptible to infection.

Cut nails when they are dry, not wet – wet nails may be likely to tear, bend, or not cut smoothly because they’re softer when wet. Cutting dry nails will give you a cleaner, smoother cut. 

Make a few small cuts – don’t try to clip the toenail in one snip. Make a few small cuts across your nail first.

Don’t cut cuticles – Cutting them can cause bleeding or infection. Instead, try using a cuticle stick and push them back. 

If you have questions about foot care, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at our office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

If you don’t clip your toenails you risk the chance of them growing too long, becoming ingrown and/or causing discomfort as you walk. Trimming your toenails may seem simple enough, but it isn’t something that should be done carelessly. This is why our staff at Orange CA Podiatry put together a list of toenail trimming basics so that you can give your feet the care they deserve.


·        Cut straight across – Guide the clippers across the nail of each toe and avoid cutting them in a curved shape.


·        Use appropriate toenail clippers – large clippers are for toenails, small clippers are for fingernails.


·        Leave nails a little long – If you cut them too short, ingrown toenails occur. It can also leave your nails susceptible to infection.


·        Cut nails when they are dry, not wet – wet nails may be likely to tear, bend, or not cut smoothly because they’re softer when wet. Cutting dry nails will give you a cleaner, smoother cut.


·        Make a few small cuts – don’t try to clip the toenail in one snip. Make a few small cuts across your nail first and then trim them.


·        Don’t cut cuticles – Cutting them can cause bleeding or infection. Instead, try using a cuticle stick and push them back.


 


If you have questions about foot care, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at our office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.


 

Saturday, March 12, 2016

Pediatric Foot Care Tips

Children’s feet require special attention because their bones, muscles, and ligaments are all developing as they grow. This is why scheduling a pediatric foot exam at Orange CA Podiatry is important. Exams of the feet and ankles ensure that your child’s bones are growing correctly. And if a problem does arise, it can be handled early – when easiest to treat. In addition, it is important to practice proper foot care with your child. To assist you with providing optimal foot health for your child, our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry suggest utilizing these tips.



  • Cut toenails straight across – doing so will help prevent painful ingrown toenails. Signs of an ingrown toenail include pain, redness, and swelling.

  • Keep feet clean and dry – Preventing bacterial and fungal infections begin with good hygiene. Thoroughly wash your child’s feet at bath time. Afterward, dry them well between the toes to prevent athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that thrives in moisture.

  • Prevent foot injuries – Walking barefoot outdoors on dirty pavement exposes kids’ feet to splinters, cuts, and severe injuries. If your child receives a cut, scrape, or scratch on the feet, rinse it with soap and water and keep the injury covered with a bandage until it heals.


If you have questions about your child’s foot care, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at our office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Details on Xerosis (Dry Skin)

Xerosis cutis is the medical term for abnormally dry skin and can commonly occur on the feet. Dry skin is common and can occur in anyone, but it is most common in the elderly. If you’ve typically had normal skin on your feet and have been noticing them becoming increasingly dry, you’re likely dealing with a case of xerosis. If that’s the case, please give our staff at Orange CA Podiatry a call.


There are several factors that can cause xerosis, such as bathing or showering habitually more than once a day, using excessively hot water when showering or bathing, and using non-moisturizing soaps. The signs and symptoms you might see and feel are rough, scaly, or flaking skin, itching, or cracks in the skin. To find out whether your dry skin is something to be concerned about, our doctors will carefully examine your skin. After asking a couple of questions, such as when the problem began, they will carefully map out a treatment plan with you.


For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Don’t Suffer From Athlete’s Foot

If you sport bare feet in public places like swimming pools or locker rooms, our staff at Orange CA Podiatry encourages you to begin wearing shoes immediately, simply because you are at risk for athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is a very common skin condition that affects the sole of the foot and the skin between the toes. Athlete’s foot occurs when the tinea fungus grows on the feet. Athlete’s foot isn’t serious, but sometimes it’s hard to cure. If you have symptoms of this condition, you should visit us as soon as possible.


Common symptoms of athlete’s foot typically include various degrees of itching and burning. However, many individuals with athlete’s foot have no symptoms at all and do not even know they have an infection. This fungal infection, in particular, is contagious and can be spread person to person or by walking on contaminated objects and floors. It can also be caused by wearing tight-fitting, closed-toe shoes. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, give us a call to discuss your treatment options.


For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Difference between Sprains and Strains

At Orange CA Podiatry, we understand that accidents and injuries happen, but if you were to trip and fall, would you know the difference between a muscle sprain and a muscle strain? Sprains and strains are common injuries that share similar signs and symptoms but involve different parts of your body. Once we inform you how to decipher between a sprain and a strain, you should contact our office to discuss treatment options if one were ever to occur.


The most common location for a sprain is in your ankle. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of the ligaments – the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones together in your joints. Strains often occur in the lower back and in the hamstring muscle in the back of your thigh. A strain, on the other hand, is a stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon. A tendon is a fibrous cord that connects muscles to bones. Initial treatment for both sprains and strains includes rest, ice, compression and elevation, however if the pain is severe, you should seek immediate medical attention.


For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Hit the Pavement with These Walking Tips

Here on the west coast, we are lucky enough to have warmer winters than other states, so this makes it for easy for residents to go for walks when desired. If you’re not walking properly it can wreak havoc on your posture as well as your feet. At Orange CA Podiatry, as much as we love to see you for a visit, we also like to see you pain-free. Next time you decide to go for a stroll through the neighborhood, take these tips into consideration.



  • Put on those walking shoes – The ideal shoe should be stable from side-to-side, well-cushioned, and it should enable you to walk smoothly.

  • Stride – Your stride should come naturally. As you master the correct walking posture (chest up, shoulders back) you’ll find your stride may become a little smaller as you start to walk faster. Plus, the more short quick strides you take equal more work for your glutes.

  • Foot Action – Always walk heal to toe. Push off from your heel and roll through to your toe. Your heel should always strike the ground first and your toes should gently flex upward. The ideal foot action should be Heel-arch-ball-toe before completing the step and moving to the next one.


For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Benefits of Custom Foot Orthotics

Being on your feet all day can cause aches and pains in your feet and lower body. If your feet are not properly supported, moving can cause stress and strain. There is a wide variety of foot orthotics on the market that are designed to provide relief. However, custom foot orthotics provides the most because they are designed for your foot and your foot only. With years of medical training in foot care, Drs. Lin or Weiss is an expert in treating foot problems with orthotics.


Custom orthotics are made from “casts” or molds of your individual feet. In addition, “angled posts” or wedges are added that match the angular relationship between your leg, rear foot, and forefoot. Unlike an arch support, a custom orthotic moves with your foot and controls certain parts of your foot at certain times during your walking cycle. Although orthotic devices may look like simple pieces of plastic, they come in a variety of materials and profoundly affect your entire musculoskeletal system.


If you think you might benefit from custom foot orthotics, please give us a call. For more information about the services we provide and the custom foot orthotics as well as conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

High Arch Pain

The arch in your foot is comprised of your tarsal and metatarsal bones, along with supporting ligaments and tendons. The arch runs from the toes to the heel on the bottom of the foot. High arches are the complete opposite of flat feet, due to the fact that they are raised more than normal. Unlike flat feet, high arches tend to be painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the metatarsals. If you have high arches that are causing you strife, come visit us at Orange CA Podiatry today.


When any arch-related bones, ligaments, and tendons are weakened or injured from overuse, excessive activity, or wear and tear from aging, then you may start experiencing arch pain. Symptoms include shortened foot length, difficulty fitting shoes, and foot pain while walking, standing or running. High arches, especially ones that are flexible and well cared for, may not need any treatment. However, corrective shoes may help relieve pain and improve walking.


For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Foot Blister Care

Most blisters caused by friction or minor burns do not require doctor’s care. However, if a blister develops on your foot and causes you concern, you should contact one of our doctors at Orange CA Podiatry immediately. It’s important that you do not puncture a blister at home unless it is large, painful, or likely to be further irritated. The fluid-filled blister keeps the underlying skin clean, which prevents infection and promotes healing. However, if you can’t wait and need to pop a blister, please follow these care tips.



  • Use a sterilized needle or razor blade (to sterilize it, put the point or edge in a flame until it is red-hot, or rinse it in alcohol).

  • Wash your hands and the area thoroughly, then make a small hole and gently squeeze out the clear fluid.

  • If the fluid is white or yellow, the blister may be infected and needs medical attention.

  • Do not remove the skin over a broken blister. The new skin underneath needs this protective cover.

  • Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream.

  • Look for signs of infection to develop, including pus drainage, a red or warm skin surrounding the blister, or red streaks leading away from the blister.


If you are suffering from foot blisters, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. For more information about the services we provide and the foot conditions we treat, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a common ailment that affects the forefoot, typically in young people who engage in physical activity like running or dancing. The most common symptom is pain in the ball-of-the-foot, especially on the medial or inner side. Sesamoiditis is usually distinguished from other forefoot conditions by its gradual onset. However, the only way you’ll know you have sesamoiditis is if you visit our doctors at Orange CA Podiatry.


The sesamoid is a small bone under the ball of the foot. In the normal foot, the sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located in the ball of the foot, beneath the big toe joint. Acting as a pulley for tendons, the sesamoids help the big toe move normally and provide leverage when the big toe “pushes off” during walking and running. Sesamoid injuries can involve the bones, tendons, and/or surrounding tissues in the joint and typically cause pain. In addition, people with high arches are at risk for developing sesamoid problems. Frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes can also be a contributing factor.


If you are a highly active person and begin to experience swelling and bruising in your toes or joints, please give us a call. For more information about sesamoiditis as well as other conditions we treat and the services we offer, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.